EMPOWERING MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION THROUGH DIGITAL LITERACY IN SOUTH-SOUTH NIGERIA

Acha J.O.; Ojong R.I.; Okon G.J.; Roger R.N.

Acha J.O. University of Calabar
Ojong R.I.
Okon G.J.
Roger R.N.

Keywords: Digital literacy, Marginalized communities, Sustainable development, Poverty alleviation

Abstract

In order to promote sustainable development and reduce poverty, this investigation explores the potential of digital literacy in empowering underprivileged communities in South-South Nigeria. This work uses a descriptive survey design and included 330 people, including 246 supervisors and 84 directors. Because of the manageable sample size, there was no sampling. The questionnaire was pilot tested which generated a reliability coefficient of 0.84. Three experts validated the instrument for data collection. In addition to collecting personal data, the questionnaire answered the research questions and purpose of the study. Decisions were made based on the actual limitations of mean scores after responses were examined using t-test analysis and descriptive statistics. According to the report, socioeconomic involvement requires a number of digital abilities, including financial literacy, internet search competence, and basic computer operation. It showed how well digital literacy training programs work to give adults the necessary abilities and outlined important ways to incorporate these programmes into larger community development projects. Among the suggestions include investing in digital infrastructure, enhancing collaborations, and growing digital literacy initiatives.